Media statement about the review of Ontario’s Far North Act

Boreal Forest; Abby Swann

Ontario Nature supports Nishnawbe Aski Nation’s expectation that any process to review and/or repeal Ontario’s Far North Act must begin with government-to-government dialogue within the traditional territories of Treaty 9. We support NAN’s offer to facilitate a consultative process for the development of the lands and resources in NAN territory. Ontario Nature also agrees that First Nations engaged in land-use planning under the Far North Act must have access to alternate sources of funding to continue their work.

Though Ontario Nature supported the passing of the Far North Act in 2010, we will not obstruct or challenge changes to or revocation of the law, if that is the will of affected First Nations, based on their free, prior and informed consent.